Simba SC captain John Raphael Bocco says the prospect of playing in the
inaugural edition of the African Football League (AFL) is an exciting opportunity
for not only the club, but Tanzanian and East African football in general.
Bocco, 34, has described it as an honor for Simba to be playing in the eight-team
inaugural tournament.
“This is a great tournament and a massive opportunity to play against some of the
top teams in Africa. We are proud as Simba to have been selected to play,” the
striker stated.
He added; “This is also an opportunity for us as Africans to showcase our football
to the world and also exhibit the growth we have had over the years. I believe we
have the opportunity to show the world what we can do as a continent.”
Simba, who reached the quarter finals of the Total Energies CAF Champions
League last season, only losing to then defending champions Wydad Athletic Club
on penalties, are looking to have a good show in the AFL and probably have a shot
at the title.
“Simba is a great club with great potential. Our ambition always as a club is to
achieve the biggest things not only nationally but continental as well. We are a
club with great history and we want to prove our worth in this tournament as well.
We have made progress over the years and this is yet another opportunity for us to
continue growing,” noted Bocco.
Wekundu Wa Msimbazi, as they are commonly referred as, will start their AFL
campaign against record champions Al Ahly, a duel that will be tough, but Simba
are confident they have what it takes to maneuver through.
Bocco, who has been at Simba for the last six years, has promised the team will
continue with their trademark free flowing and entertaining football, and believes
their fans, donned in their traditional red and white colors, will bring the much
needed atmosphere to their games.
